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The article mentions several companies selling cold-weather clothing. The founder of Toronto's Fathom Expeditions Inc., Dave German arranges luxurious Antarctic excursions. He recommends a three-layer approach for clothing, beginning with mid-weight long underwear--ideally made of Capilene--and liner socks. Next come mid-weight fleece and expedition-weight Polartec socks. Unlike cotton, these types of high-tech fabrics wick moisture away from the body, which is vital for maintaining warmth. The third layer, the outer shell, is "critical," German emphasizes. "We still believe in Gore-Tex, or a similar coating, that allows moisture to escape and still keeps you warm." Outer garments should be lightweight and made with leak-proof seams and zippers. German's top choices are the Six chuter jacket and bib pants (about $500 per piece) from California's enviro-conscious Patagonia clothing company. As for footwear, German turns to Canadian-founded Sorel. German recommends the Glacier Boot ($129.99) rated to -74°C. Finally, German adds Black Diamond Equipment patrol gloves ($105) and an Andean-style Teton hat ($45) from Alberta's Ambler Mountain Works. Shelley Kieran of Kleinburg, Ont., discovered in February 1997 when she ran a marathon in Antarctica that she needed a lighter outfit. Kieran's layering started with silk long underwear, then Pearl Izumi's laser top ($70), followed by a Patagonia long-sleeved fleece like the Synchilla Marsupial ($90) and topped with a Pearl Izumi catch jacket ($240). Those committed to buying Canadian will enjoy the story of Arc'teryx Equipment Inc. What began as a designer of high-tech climbing tackle now creates a full range of extremely high-end outdoor clothing.